Police shoot a woman in Berlin-Charlottenburg

During an operation in Berlin-Charlottenburg, the police had to use firearms. The shots were directed at a woman.

Police officers shot and injured a woman in Berlin-Charlottenburg, t-online.de reports. According to initial police findings, the woman was a “person with behavioral problems.” She was injured, said a police spokesman.

He was initially unable to say whether the woman was seriously injured. It was also initially unclear whether multiple shots were fired and whether one or more police officers fired the shots.

The Kaiserin-Augusta-Allee / Sömmeringstraße area is cordoned off. A homicide squad has taken over the investigation. According to the police, this is generally the case when police officers use their firearms.

In what cases are German police allowed to shoot?

German police are allowed to use firearms in specific circumstances, governed by strict regulations and the principle of proportionality. Generally, they may shoot in the following cases:

• Self-defense or defense of others: When there is an immediate threat to the life or physical integrity of the officer or other individuals.
• To prevent serious crimes: When it’s necessary to stop a crime that poses a significant threat to life, health, or property.
• To prevent escape: When a suspect who has committed or is suspected of committing a serious crime is attempting to flee and cannot be stopped by other means.
• To enforce compliance: In rare cases, when a person refuses to comply with lawful orders and poses a threat to public safety.
• As a last resort: Firearm use is typically considered only after other less lethal options have been exhausted or deemed ineffective.
• Warning shots: In some situations, police may fire warning shots to deter a threat.

German police are trained to use firearms as a last resort. They must always consider the principle of proportionality, meaning the use of force must be appropriate to the situation and minimize harm to all parties involved.

The specific rules can vary slightly between different German states (Bundesländer), as police forces are organized at the state level. However, the general principles remain consistent across Germany.